Dry, itchy, inflamed or blistered skin on the feet are all symptoms of a fungal condition known as athlete’s foot. Formally known as tinea pedis, athlete’s foot is an uncomfortable skin disease, usually appearing between the toes, that can quickly spread to the rest of the foot if not properly treated. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent athlete’s foot in the first place. If you do develop this condition, though, a podiatrist can recommend an appropriate course of treatment. At Avon Podiatry Associates, Dr. Richard Grayson is your Avon foot doctor.

Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot develops when the fungus begins growing on the skin. Fungus thrives in warm, damp environments, such as showers, swimming pools, and locker room floors. The risk of developing athlete’s foot in these areas is especially high. Athletic shoes can also create this same warm, humid environment when the feet are regularly perspiring in them. The symptoms of athlete’s foot include skin that is dry, itchy, scaling, inflamed or blistered. These signs usually appear on the skin between the toes, but can also spread to other areas of the feet and body.

Caring For Your Feet

There are several steps you can take to care for your feet. For instance, keeping the feet clean and dry can help prevent athlete’s foot from developing. Not only can caring for your feet prevent athlete’s foot, but it can also help the skin heal more quickly if the condition has already developed. Your Avon foot doctor can recommend specific steps you can take to better care for the skin on your feet. Some things you can do right away to care for your feet and prevent athlete’s foot include:

Wear shoes that are light and airy

Wear clean socks to keep the feet dry

Avoid walking around barefoot

Wear protective footwear in locker rooms and at public pools

Use talcum powder to minimize foot perspiration

Change socks often if heavy perspiration is a problem

Even with proper care of your feet, athlete’s foot can still develop. Fortunately, there are various over-the-counter fungicidal ointments that can help. More severe cases of athlete’s foot might require a prescription medication or ointment, which can be obtained through a podiatrist.